Australian captain Tim Paine played a huge role in inspiring his team to get out of a slump in the Adelaide Test. The Indians had posted a challenging total in the first innings and their bowlers had Australia on the mat. But an undefeated 73 from Paine helped reduce the lead, and his fighting punch inspired his bowlers to return on the third morning and blow the Indians away for their lowest Test total of 36.
That change is Paine’s stance as a batsman, attributed to former Australian wicket keeper Ian Healy, who gave some of his thoughts to Paine during the Ashes in England last year.
“He’s been trying to hit Greg Chappell the whole time.
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“The eyelash must be natural and free. Bad ball on the legs puts it away, cut shot catches it up. He blocked bad balls last year and survived only very much like many Adelaide players.
“All I said to him was put down bad balls, find them, and put them away. If it’s a clip on the leg, attach it tightly. If it’s a cut, give it a try. Bat like a goalkeeper and that’s exactly what he did, ”Healy told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.
Paine has led Australia in 20 friendlies so far, and Healy believes he can still be around to bring baggygreens back to the top of the longest cricket format.
“I expect him to play quite a long time because he started so late – and it looks like he’s in good physical shape and doing it well.
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“He has a job to do that interests and motivates him to bring the Australian team back to the top and into the hearts of the Australians.
“He led a massive cultural revolution that must be exhausted, so I have no problem if he takes me by surprise and wrecked me before I expect it for taking on so much, but I think he will be rewarded and enjoy the harvest it much more. I have no problem saying three more years, ”Healy said.